The Fox 34 Float Factory GRIP2 is a high-performance suspension fork designed for aggressive trail and enduro riders. As with any precision component, regular maintenance is crucial to keeping it running smoothly and extending its service life. One of the most essential tasks is an oil change, which helps preserve damper performance and maintain small bump compliance. This guide will walk through the complete oil change process for the Fox 34 Float Factory GRIP2, ensuring peak performance and longevity.
Tools Required:
- 10mm and 15mm socket or wrench
- 2mm and 5mm hex keys [paid link]
- Torque wrench [paid link]
- Clean oil pan or drain tray
- Suspension-specific damper oil (Fox 5wt Teflon-infused oil)
- Fox Float Fluid or equivalent suspension grease
- Syringe or oil bath tool for precise fluid application
- Rubber mallet
- Nitrile gloves and clean shop rags
- Isopropyl alcohol (90% or higher)
Preparation and Safety
Before beginning the oil change, ensure the bike is secured on a stand. Remove the front wheel and brake caliper to prevent contamination and allow full access to the fork lowers. It’s also best to perform this task in a clean, well-lit workspace with all tools organized.
Removing the Fork Lowers
To begin, release all air pressure from the fork’s air spring using the Schrader valve cap located on the left leg. Use a 2mm hex key to remove the rebound adjuster knob from the right leg. With a 10mm and 15mm socket, loosen and remove the foot nuts from the bottom of each fork leg. Gently tap the bolts upward with a rubber mallet to unseat the internal shafts.
Once the shafts are unseated, remove the bolts and pull the lowers downward, catching any residual oil in your drain tray. Inspect the inside of the lowers for any signs of contamination or damage. Clean thoroughly with isopropyl alcohol and a clean rag.
Draining and Replacing Bath Oil
The Fox 34 Float Factory GRIP2 uses bath oil to lubricate the fork’s bushings and seals. This oil degrades over time, collecting dirt and microscopic metal particles. During removal, about 30ml of oil per leg should drain out. Wipe the lowers clean, and if necessary, replace the dust wipers and foam rings.
To reinstall, apply a thin layer of Fox Float Fluid to the foam rings and reinstall them into the lowers. Add the specified bath oil amounts directly into the lowers: 20ml in the air spring side (left leg) and 40ml in the damper side (right leg). These amounts ensure proper lubrication and avoid overfilling, which can lead to oil leakage.
Reinstalling the Fork Lowers
Carefully slide the lowers back onto the upper tubes, ensuring not to displace the foam rings or seals. Reinsert the foot bolts and torque them to manufacturer specs: 5.1 Nm (45 in-lb) for the air spring side and 7.3 Nm (65 in-lb) for the damper side. Reinstall the rebound knob using the 2mm hex key.
Re-pressurizing the Air Spring
After reassembly, re-inflate the fork to your desired pressure using a shock pump. Refer to the Fox user manual for sag recommendations based on rider weight and terrain. Once pressurized, cycle the fork through its travel to ensure smooth movement and even distribution of bath oil.
Routine Maintenance Intervals
Fox recommends changing the bath oil every 30-50 hours of riding for the 34 Float Factory GRIP2. This interval is ideal for riders tackling rough or dusty conditions, where contamination can happen quickly. Keeping up with this schedule will help maintain consistent suspension feel and prolong the lifespan of internal components.
Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues
If the fork feels harsh or inconsistent post-service, it’s likely due to improper oil volume or air pressure imbalances. Recheck oil levels and confirm that all bolts are torqued to spec. A common oversight is failing to reseat the air spring shaft correctly during reinstallation, which can lead to poor rebound behavior.
Another potential issue is oil contamination from improper cleaning practices. Always use isopropyl alcohol and clean tools when working on internal components. If oil appears foamy or milky, it should be replaced immediately, as it may be contaminated with water or air.
Performance Optimization Tips
To optimize the 34 Float Factory GRIP2 for your terrain and riding style, consider tuning the high-speed and low-speed compression and rebound settings. After each oil change, reset all external adjustments to their baseline and incrementally fine-tune.
For enhanced small bump sensitivity, many riders benefit from installing upgraded foam rings or using friction-reducing fluids such as Fox’s Gold lubricant around the dust seals. Always confirm compatibility with the existing seals to prevent degradation.
Customization and Tuning
Riders seeking a more customized ride feel can experiment with air volume spacers. The 34 Float Factory GRIP2 allows for easy insertion of volume tokens to alter the spring curve. This is particularly useful for heavier riders or those hitting large drops and jumps.
Adjustments to air volume and compression tuning should be done after servicing, once the fork is functioning smoothly. Be cautious with damper knob ranges—avoid overtightening or maxing out adjusters unnecessarily.
Compatibility Considerations
The 34 Float Factory GRIP2 is compatible with all current 29″ and 27.5″ trail bike frames using a 110mm Boost axle. However, it uses a proprietary GRIP2 damper that differs in design from previous FIT4 and Rhythm series forks.
When pairing with drivetrains or wheelsets, ensure proper rotor spacing and axle alignment to avoid brake rub and unwanted fork flex. The GRIP2 damper’s advanced adjustments may require more precise cockpit tuning compared to simpler forks.
Model Comparison
Compared to the Fox 34 Performance and Rhythm series, the Factory GRIP2 offers the most refined damping control with separate high- and low-speed compression and rebound. This allows riders to better fine-tune their ride for technical terrain.
Against the RockShox Pike Ultimate, the 34 Float Factory GRIP2 holds its own in stiffness and adjustability, though some may find the Pike slightly more supple out of the box. Riders focused on aggressive trail riding often prefer the GRIP2’s control and customizability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How often should I change the oil in my 34 Float Factory GRIP2?
Every 30-50 hours of riding, depending on conditions. Dusty or wet environments may require more frequent service.
2. Can I use automotive oil or grease instead of Fox suspension fluid?
No. Always use Fox-approved suspension fluids to ensure compatibility and avoid damage to seals and internal components.
3. What happens if I overfill the fork with oil?
Overfilling can cause hydraulic lock, oil leaks, and inconsistent fork performance. Stick to manufacturer-recommended volumes.
4. How do I know if my rebound knob is properly installed?
After reassembly, the rebound knob should click cleanly through its range. If it feels loose or unresponsive, reinstall it using a 2mm hex key.
5. Is the GRIP2 damper user-serviceable?
No. The GRIP2 damper is factory sealed and requires professional servicing. Only perform bath oil changes unless trained for full damper overhauls.
6. Can I change the air spring travel on this fork?
Yes, but it requires disassembling the air spring assembly and installing a different length shaft. Follow Fox’s official guide for travel changes.